Environmental Stewardship Program

Because, Earth Day is coming up on April 22, it's good time to remember that we can avoid a negative impact on the environment with the choices we make for our kitchens and baths. It is especially important in the closed environment of our homes where the air quality can affect the health of individuals--especially those prone to asthma or other respiratory problems.

One of the best things you can do when choosing cabinets is to look for companies that have earned the certification of the Environmental Stewardship Program sponsored by the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturer's Association.

To be certified, cabinet manufacturers must meet specific environmental standards and practices. Among these are air quality standards for formaldehyde levels and emission of gases into the environment; use of particleboard that is made of 75% or greater recycled material; use of hardwoods from sustainable sources, management of the manufacturing process including recycling and documentation; and community relations.

It is reassuring to know that the cabinetry in your home is made with these standards and practices in mind--in light of some imported products which are of unknown quality.

Both of the American cabinetry lines that we represent--Jay Rambo Co. and Schrock Handcrafted Cabinetry--have earned the ESP seal; and our European line--Leicht--has earned the German equivalent of it.

Go to www.greencabinetsource.org to learn more and to see a list of manufacturers that have earned the ESP seal.